Why Every Office Should Have A Balance Board: Health And Productivity Benefits

Key Takeaways:

• Fostering Active Movement: Balance boards enhance both physical well-being and productivity by promoting active movement and improving posture in the workplace.
• Ergonomic Benefits: Incorporating balance boards into office setups supports mental focus, reduces back pain, and aligns with ergonomic principles to combat sedentary lifestyles.
• Happiness: 83% of FluidStance users self-reported being happier at their desk on the FluidStance Level than without.

It’s the final touch.

Companies and professionals continuously seek innovative solutions to enhance workplace ergonomics and well-being. One office tool brings everything together in this search: the balance board. 

At FluidStance, we believe in creating efficient environments where the health and comfort of every individual are paramount. We’ve created novel products like “The Level” to redefine what it means to have a standing desk.

In this article, we’ll explore how balance boards may transform your modern work environment, supporting our core mission to improve workplace ergonomics and well-being.

Exploring The Concept Of Active Workstations

Active workstations, designed to integrate movement into the work routine, are pivotal in fostering a dynamic workflow that harmonizes physical health with professional productivity.

One standout innovation in this realm is the balance board, a tool that transforms the static posture of standing desks into an engaging, movement-rich experience. By subtly engaging the muscles, balance boards like "The Level" from FluidStance seamlessly incorporate micro-movements throughout the workday. These movements are more than just physical activities; they are the keystones of mental alertness and creativity, essential for professional success.

The benefits of balance boards at these active workstations are multifaceted. Physically, they can:

• Promote Improved Posture and core strength, reducing the risk of back pain which is often exacerbated by prolonged sitting or static standing. 
• Ergonomically Align the body in a more natural stance, ensuring that the workstation adapts to the user's needs rather than the other way around. 
• Active Engagement helps maintain balance and also translates to increased calorie burn, a welcome byproduct for those looking to counteract the sedentary aspects of desk jobs.

Beyond the physical, the ripple effects of using a balance board reach the cognitive domain. The constant subtle adaptations to maintain balance can enhance concentration and focus.

Don't let a sedentary lifestyle compromise your health or productivity. Join the movement revolution with FluidStance.

The Health Benefits Of Balance Boards

Balance boards, a cornerstone of the innovative workspace solutions provided by companies like FluidStance, are revolutionizing how we approach our health and productivity at work. These cleverly designed tools are not just about adding a fun twist to your work routine; they embody a practical approach to enhancing physical wellness and mental sharpness.

Designed with a sleek aluminum base and multi-ply wood top, the Level increases energy expenditure by 19.2% over sitting, as confirmed by Mayo Clinic research. This movement-focused platform encourages natural range of motion similar to walking, without distracting users from daily tasks. The subtle movements not only improve heart rate but also enhance core strength and posture, as 57% of users report feeling stronger after regular use.

Improved Posture And Reduced Back Pain

One of the most significant benefits of balance boards is their ability to improve posture. Many people, especially those accustomed to long hours at a desk, suffer from slouching habits that can lead to chronic back pain and discomfort. Integrating a balance board like "The Level" into your standing desk setup encourages continuous micro-movements, which naturally align your spine and strengthen your core.

Enhanced Joint Mobility And Muscle Strength

Using a balance board stimulates and strengthens various muscle groups - from your legs to your core – that are typically underused when sitting or standing still. The subtle yet constant motion required to maintain your balance on the board ensures that your leg muscles, ankles, and even hips are moving and stretching throughout the day. This builds strength and enhances joint mobility and flexibility, reducing the risk of injury and improving your overall physical health.

Boosted Circulation And Increased Calorie Burn

Standing on a balance board keeps your body in constant motion, which significantly boosts blood circulation compared to sedentary sitting or static standing. Improved circulation ensures better oxygen and nutrient delivery throughout your body, enhancing your energy levels and focus. Moreover, the active engagement of your muscles while balancing increases calorie burn. Incorporating balanced board activities into your work routine can subtly contribute to your fitness goals and support a healthier lifestyle.

Sharpened Focus And Mental Clarity

The act of balancing requires concentration and mental focus, drawing your attention away from distractions and stress. This mindfulness aspect can lead to improved cognitive functions, including sharper focus, better memory retention, and enhanced creativity. The gentle, rhythmic motion of a balance board also promotes a relaxed yet alert state, making it easier to tackle challenging tasks and enhance overall productivity.

Promoting An Active And Healthy Work Environment

Embarking on the journey of incorporating balance boards into the workplace signifies a positive step toward fostering a culture of wellness and activity. This small change can have a profound impact on employee health, satisfaction, and productivity. 

Combating Sedentary Work Life With Balance Board

In the modern workspace, professionals often face the challenge of remaining sedentary for extended periods. This sedentary lifestyle can contribute to numerous health issues, including poor posture, decreased blood circulation, and an increase in the risk of chronic diseases. 

Using a balance board promotes subtle, constant movement, compelling your body to engage multiple muscle groups to maintain balance, leading to: 

• Active Standing stimulates blood flow and encourages a dynamic range of motion, effectively combating the negative impacts of a sedentary work life. 
• Micro-Movements required to keep balance while on the board may also substantially improve your posture over time.

Moreover, the benefits of balance boards extend beyond physical health and venture into the realm of cognitive improvements, including the following:

• Balancing Requires Focus and mental presence, which can help sharpen your concentration and boost productivity. 
• Heightened Cognitive Engagement may help make tackling complex tasks or long hours of work more manageable, as it fosters a more dynamic and stimulating work environment.

Balance Boards As Tools For Boosting Productivity

In the modern workplace, productivity and health go hand in hand. Among the various benefits, balance boards help to:

• Encourage Movement: Balance boards encourage gentle, continuous movement. This counters the stagnation often felt during long periods of stationary work, which can lead to mental fatigue and decreased concentration. Subtly engaging core muscles and promoting an active stance may help users become more alert and focused.
• Enhance Mental Engagement: Balance boards can encourage mental engagement, which can lead to a state of flow where one is fully immersed and engaged in the task at hand, blocking out distractions and achieving high levels of productivity. The natural stimulation of balancing keeps the mind sharp and ready to tackle complex problems, making the balance board an ally in navigating through work-intensive periods.
• Better Overall Well-Being: Balance boards also indirectly affect productivity – improving overall well-being. Regular use decreases the risk of posture-related issues and the discomforts associated with prolonged sitting or standing. Healthier employees are, without a doubt, happier and more productive. When physical discomfort is minimized, individuals can allocate more mental energy toward their work, fostering a more engaged and efficient workforce.
• Foster A Healthy Environment: Balance boards can boost morale, motivate teams, and attract talent looking for a forward-thinking and health-conscious work environment.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining an active lifestyle and enhancing productivity in the office can be challenging. Incorporating balance boards into the office setting presents an effective and targeted approach to combating sedentary work habits.

Let's take a step towards creating more dynamic and health-conscious work environments. Embrace the benefits of balance boards, with FluidStance.

Read also:

• The Importance Of Balance For Health And Well-Being
• 11 Yoga Poses For Your Workday You Can Do At Your Desk
• The Desk Warrior’s Manifesto. The FluidStance Way

Frequently Asked Questions About The Benefits Of Balance Boards In The Workplace

What is a balance board?

A balance board is a novel, flat surface designed for standing that typically rests on a curved base. This design allows the board to tilt in various directions, encouraging users to engage their core muscles and maintain balance. Balance boards, like "The Level" from FluidStance, are crafted to promote slight, continual movements, making them an excellent addition to standing desks and active workstations.

How can a balance board improve workplace health?

Incorporating a balance board into the workplace can significantly enhance overall health by reducing the risks associated with prolonged sitting or standing still. Continuous movement improves circulation, reduces strain on the body, and can help correct posture. Engaging different muscle groups lets balance boards help reduce the likelihood of developing musculoskeletal disorders, a common concern for professionals with sedentary office roles.

What are the benefits of using a balance board at work?

Using a balance board at work has numerous benefits, promoting both physical and mental well-being. Physically, it aids in strengthening core muscles, improving posture, and increasing energy expenditure, even during stationary tasks. Mentally, staying active with a balance board can enhance focus and cognitive function, leading to higher productivity levels. Moreover, incorporating active movement into your work routine can boost overall engagement and job satisfaction.

Can a balance board help reduce sedentary behavior in an office?

Yes, a balance board is an effective tool for combating sedentary behavior in an office setting. Standing on a balance board may help you transform passive tasks into active ones, ensuring continuous movement throughout the day. This active engagement helps to break the cycle of prolonged sitting, which is linked to numerous health risks, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

How does a balance board enhance productivity?

A balance board enhances productivity by improving mental alertness and reducing fatigue. The micro-movements required to maintain balance stimulate blood flow and oxygen to the brain, enhancing cognitive performance and prolonging concentration periods. This increased focus and energy can lead to greater efficiency and accuracy in work tasks, ultimately boosting productivity.

Is a balance board suitable for all ages and fitness levels?

Absolutely! Balance boards are inclusive and beneficial for people of all ages and fitness levels. The trick is gradual adaptation; beginners can start using the board for shorter periods and gradually increase usage as their balance improves. Most high-quality balance boards, including FluidStance’s, are crafted to support a wide range of movements and accommodate different abilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy their health and productivity benefits.